"A History of Matrimonial Institutions, Vol. 3 of 3" by George Elliott Howard is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This volume appears to focus primarily on the evolution of matrimonial institutions, particularly the laws and practices related to marriage and divorce in England and the United States. The work includes a detailed examination of various matrimonial theories, cultural practices, and legislative frameworks surrounding marriage from historical perspectives. The opening of this volume delves into the complexities of divorce legislation in the United States, particularly from the late colonial era into the early 20th century. It highlights the gradual evolution of divorce laws, underscoring the shifts from legislative decrees to judicial processes, and addresses various grounds for divorce, including adultery, cruelty, and wilful desertion. The text offers insight into how these laws developed differently across states, reflecting changes in societal values and norms regarding marriage and family throughout this period. (This is an automatically generated summary.)